Moving from one house to another is not easy, especially when there is a reality of rain that cannot be avoided in Singapore. Moving house in the rain can create additional stress, from slippery surfaces to the risk of water-damaged furniture. That being said, there are still ways on how you can make your move as easy and stress-free as possible.
Here are seven practical tips on how to move a house in the rain and how to prevent damage to your belongings. LS House Movers Singapore provides Singapore’s best house moving, furniture moving, office moving, and warehouse moving services.
1. Plan Ahead: Check the Weather Forecast
When preparing to move house in the rain in Singapore, the first step is to keep an eye on the weather. Singapore’s tropical climate means rain showers can strike unexpectedly, especially during the monsoon season.
- Check the weather forecast on reliable apps like NEA’s Weather@SG or AccuWeather.
- In case you can, try to avoid moving on a rainy day. But if this is not feasible, come up with a backup strategy of how to reduce the damages when moving house in the rain.
Pro Tip:
Carry an umbrella or a poncho where you might have to step out quickly and notify your movers about potential weather challenges.
2. Waterproof Your Packing
Water is a great enemy to the items in your house, beginning with furniture and electronics. It is important to take measures to ensure that your packing is also rain proof.
- Plastic Wraps: Secure large furniture like beds, tables, and sofas with heavy-duty plastic sheets.
- Waterproof Boxes: Use high-quality, sturdy boxes for fragile items.
- Protect Electronics: Wrap gadgets such as TVs, computers, and kitchen appliances in bubble wrap, followed by plastic covers.
- Reusable Garbage Bags: Slip these over smaller boxes to prevent water seepage.
All these things add an extra layer of protection to your belongings and keep them dry even during heavy rain.
3. Use the Right Transport: Covered Trucks are a Must
Choosing the appropriate moving vehicle is essential during rainy weather. In Singapore, covered trucks are ideal for keeping your items dry and safe.
- For smaller moves (1-2 bedrooms), a 9 ft covered truck like the Tata 407 works well.
- For larger moves (3+ bedrooms), opt for 20-32 ft covered trucks to accommodate all your belongings.
If a covered truck isn’t available, use tarps or plastic sheets to shield items during transit.
4. Protect Your Floors and Pathways
House moving in the rain often leads to muddy footprints and slippery surfaces, increasing the risk of accidents. Protect your old and new homes with the following:
- Floor Mats: Place old towels, rugs, or plastic sheeting at doorways to trap water and dirt.
- Walkway Covers: Take plywood, cardboard, or old carpets and design a perfect pathway from your house to the moving van. Tie them down using tape or weights to avoid the formation of slippery surfaces.
- Shoes: Make sure to have a shoe rack or disposable shoe covers at the doorstep to reduce dirty footprints inside the house.
5. Hire Reliable Movers and Labor
Rainy days can be unpredictable, making professional help even more valuable. Book your movers and labor well in advance to ensure availability.
- Discuss weather concerns with your movers. Reliable companies often have protective gear and contingency plans for wet weather.
- Confirm they use enclosed trucks and have experience with rain-specific moves.
- Negotiate fair rates to avoid unexpected rain-related charges.
6. Create a Staging Area
Setting up a staging area can make moving house in the rain day less chaotic. If possible, use a garage, covered porch, or sheltered spot near your home to store items before loading them onto the truck.
This reduces the time your belongings are exposed to rain. It also allows movers to work efficiently without tracking water indoors.
7. Stay Safe, and Take Your Time
Accidents are more frequent when it is raining. Stay patient and prioritize safety:
- Drive Safely: Wet roads can be very unsafe to drive on since the roads become slippery, so avoid speeding and sudden braking.
- Heavy Lifting: Wear gloves that provide a better grip so as not to drop the items you are handling.
- Traffic Considerations: Expect delays due to wet weather. This is especially true in areas with frequent cases of flood like Orchard Road or Bukit Timah.
Remember, moving house in the rain in Singapore may take longer than expected, so add extra time for a smoother process.
Conclusion
Moving house in the rain in Singapore doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Follow these seven tips in order to safeguard your belongings and avoid incidents. You need to make the change as smooth as possible: Starting from the packing to the selection of moving companies, a little planning takes you a long way. Yes, moving may get delayed with some rain on the moving day. However, with the right approach and persistence, you can manage the move perfectly.
